How are Sundays handled in most European countries? Over the course of my trip I'll be in Brussels, Milan/Venice (hope the trains are running!) and London on Sundays. Are the cities going to be going full steam or do you think they'll be shut down somewhat?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23276 posts
Europe is just like the US. Shuts down some. Trains run on a weekend schedule with some reduced service. And it will vary some.
Posted by
Lincoln, NE, USA
390 posts
All major sights will remain open on Sundays, and trains will also be running, (although in Italy you never know when they'll strike!!) although some may have a reduced schedule. Nothing major- i.e. some tube lines in London run at 10 minutes intervals Sunday morning instead of 6 minute. Just check train times on www.bahn.de to be sure you'll be able to get where you need on time.
Most restaurants will be open. In London, shops are open but have reduced hours. I don't now about Brussels, but I know in Germany NO retail shops are open on Sundays and we found this a bit in Italy as well.
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
Many museums offer free days on Sundays, and some attractions give "family" passes on Sundays.
I did not find anything closed in London, but as one said, reduced hours.
Posted by
Edmonton, Canada
51 posts
Like Frank mentioned, you will probably notice closures similar to North America. Smaller, family run shops are often closed, while large department stores will be open, perhaps with reduced hours. Trains and buses will still run, but with reductions in frequency.
Posted by
XXX
1170 posts
Things tend to be a little more quiet, at least during the first part of the day. I love a Sunday in London.
Posted by
Portlandia
3313 posts
Monday mornings can be just as quiet in many places.
Posted by
bergamo
401 posts
In Italy most stores are closed, the trains and buses are running, but they have a different schedule compared to the rest of the week. Restaurants and cafes are open.
Posted by
Shoreline, WA
216 posts
In most of Central Europe expect stores to be closed. There are strict laws about store hours, and Sundays (esp. in Catholic regions) are reserved for relaxation. In larger cities that may not be the rule any longer, but don't expect to go grocery shopping out in the country.
On the other hand, restaurants and most other tourist-oriented businesses remain open. Check individual museum and transportation attractions for operating hours.
Gas stations are operating, but may shut down early except near major highways. All semi-trucks are required to be off the road all day.
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
As Jennifer posted, Germany is shut down on Sundays. I had 1 day to visit my friend in Munich and of all days it was a Sunday. The restaurants, however, were opened, so we did a lot of eating!